French electric motor manufacturer TEMO has launched the OUTPOD system in the North American market. The unit combines elements of a pod drive and an outboard engine into an external transom-mounted solution designed specifically for sailboats. It utilizes a bolt-on mounting mechanism that eliminates the need for hull penetrations below the waterline, while a slide-mounted bracket allows complete removal for storage and servicing. Under sail, the motor can be hoisted above the waterline using a halyard connection to eliminate hydrodynamic drag, reduce biofouling, and prevent galvanic corrosion.
The system features a 180° rotating shaft for directional control and incorporates direct-drive architecture without an internal gearbox to increase efficiency and lower maintenance requirements. Operating on a 48 V architecture, the OUTPOD connects to TEMO’s proprietary modular battery cassettes or integrates into existing 48 V lithium vessel banks, with support for solar and hydrogeneration inputs. The external installation isolates the motor weight at the stern while internalizing the battery bank and power electronics to protect wiring and optimize weight distribution.
- Models available: OUTPOD 1000 (1,300 W power output, 66 lbs static thrust) and OUTPOD 3000 (3,100 W power output, 148 lbs static thrust)
- Motor unit weight: 26 lbs
- Ingress protection rating: IP67 (OUTPOD 1000), IP68 (OUTPOD 3000)
- Operating voltage: 48 V
- Modular battery capacity: 2.3 kWh cassette units
- Steering mechanism: 180° rotating shaft with remote digital throttle
